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Bhoys will always be special for Larsson
HENRIK LARSSON may have played for some of the best clubs in the world but he insists Celtic are the team who will always hold a special place in his heart. Related
The striker, 35, spent a hugely successful seven years at Parkhead, where he bagged an incredible 175 league goals in 221 games.
His prolific goal tally earned him a move to Barcelona, where he played a pivotal role in last year's Champions League success, before enjoying a short but dramatic spell at Manchester United earlier this season.
However, Larsson insists he will cherish his time in Glasgow above all other clubs, as Celtic look to seal their second SPL title in a row against Kilmarnock this weekend. "It is where I made my name and it is the club I was at for seven years," he said. "I am still in touch with Chris Sutton. That was the best partnership I was ever part of."
Speaking of the current crop of players, he added: "They are a fantastic side, with a lot of quality. There is no reason why they can't do well in Scotland and in Europe. I look for their results every week and I'm really pleased with the way they're performing.
"I didn't feel I had anything to prove when I left Scotland. I had played against the best defenders in World Cups and European Championships. Lingering
Larsson has enjoyed success at the highest level in Europe but admits he still has one lingering regret from his time in Scotland.
"Not winning the UEFA Cup final with Celtic," he said. "Losing when you are there is not a nice feeling.
"I had some friends in the city (Seville) on the day and everywhere was green and white. It was just a shame we lost."
Celtic continued to make new ground in Europe this season, progressing from the group stages of the Champions League to the last 16 for the first time.
Their involvement in the tournament only came to an end at the hands of AC Milan after extra-time and Larsson believes there is no reason why Celtic cannot dream of one day winning the trophy.
"Celtic is a rich club," he said. "Everything is possible. It would be nice if Celtic could win it."
As for this season?
"I hope Manchester United win of course," he said.
Meanwhile, Sunday's opponents Kilmarnock will insist on strict crowd segregation at Rugby Park to ensure Celtic fans do not take over the stadium in a move that could cost the club £100,000 in extra ticket sales.
"It is important that our supporters feel comfortable in their own stadium," said chairman Michael Johnston, who fears there may be crowd trouble if visiting supporters gain access to the home end.
Lisa Gray
© 2007 Independent Newspapers Ireland Ltd
Irish Independent